Best Mattresses for Lightweight Sleepers

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Before reading about the best mattresses for lightweight sleepers, you might be wondering what the term “lightweight sleeper” even means. Well, here at Sleepopolis, we classify a lightweight sleeper as anyone who weighs 130 pounds or less. Because these sleepers have a lower body weight than average, they have a different scale when it comes to determining a mattress’s firmness. Typically, all mattresses are going to feel slightly firmer to these sleepers, since they have less body weight that is sinking into the bed and being cushioned by its layers. Because of this, lightweight sleepers have to think a little bit harder about what mattress they’re buying before they take the leap, especially if they are shopping online.

As you might know if you’ve read other Sleepopolis mattress roundups, a sleeper’s mattress decision is hardly ever based on one factor alone. While a lightweight sleeper may be looking for a slightly less firm mattress to make sure they don’t feel like they’re sleeping on a board, they might also want to find a mattress that is great for joint pain, motion transfer, or cooling.

All of the mattresses on this list have gone through multiple tests that determine not only their firmness, but a series of other factors that relate to body type, preferred sleeping position, and whether or not the customer is sleeping with a partner or a pet. This way, you’re not only learning about mattresses that are great for a typical lightweight sleeper — you’re also finding a mattress that’s great for you.

Our Top Pick for Lightweight Sleepers

We chose the DreamCloud as the best mattress for lightweight sleepers because of its versatility. Its multiple layers of soft memory foam and individually wrapped coils conform to the body, making the bed a good match for several different sleeping positions.

The Best Mattresses for Lightweight Sleepers 2024

Compare Best Mattresses for Lightweight Sleepers

DreamCloud Original Mattress WinkBed Mattress Helix Sunset Mattress Nectar Classic Hybrid Bear Original Mattress Saatva Mattress Nolah Evolution Hybrid Mattress Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid Mattress
DreamCloud Original Mattress WinkBed Mattress Helix Sunset Mattress Nectar Classic Hybrid Bear Original Mattress Saatva Mattress Nolah Evolution Hybrid Mattress Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid Mattress
Rating
4.4
4.7
4.0
4.8
4.0
4.8
4.4
4.5
Firmness Firm: 7/10 Firm: 7/10 Soft: 5.5/10 Medium-firm: 6.5/10 Firm: 7.5/10 Multiple firmness options Multiple firmness options Medium-firm: 6.5/10
Material Hybrid Hybrid Hybrid Hybrid Foam Innerspring Hybrid Hybrid
Cooling
Best For
Back Sleepers,
Hot Sleepers,
Seniors
Back Sleepers, Stomach Sleepers, Back Pain, Hot Sleepers, Side Sleepers
Joint Pain,
Back Sleepers,
Side Sleepers
Back Sleepers, Hot Sleepers, Back Pain, Stomach Sleepers,
Hot Sleepers, Back Sleepers, Side Sleepers, Hip Pain,
Back Sleepers, Stomach Sleepers, Back Pain, Hot Sleepers, Seniors
Side Sleepers, Back Sleepers, Hip Pain, Seniors,
Couples,
Back Sleepers,
Hip Pain

Best Mattresses for Lightweight Sleepers Video Review

What We Look For In The Best Mattresses For Lightweight Sleepers

Softness and Comfort

If you are looking for the best mattress for a lightweight sleeper, we know one of the first things you might look for is how soft, plush, and comfortable the mattress is. We want to help you find the most comfortable mattress, so we tested the softness of each of the mattresses on this list ourselves using our firmness scale, which ranks firmness from 1-10, with 1 being the softest, to help you find exactly what you are looking for.

Pressure Relief

Regardless of how much you weigh, pressure relief is important, but pressure relief for lightweight sleepers may be different than for heavier sleepers, so we tested the pressure relief of each of these mattresses using a pressure map to help you find the best mattress for your specific needs and wants.

Motion Isolation

Motion isolation is essentially how much movement you can or can’t feel in the bed when you’re laying in it. Everyone wants to get the best sleep they can, and one way to do that is to find a mattress with good motion isolation so you aren’t woken up by other people or pets moving in the bed. We made sure to test the motion isolation properties of each of these mattresses using a ball drop test and a sort of seismograph to help you find the best mattress for you.

Best Overall – DreamCloud

Best Overall
Sleepopolis Score
We rate each mattress on a scale from 1 to 5 to reflect its overall quality. This number is comprised of individual scores from hands-on testing of materials, firmness, pressure relief, motion transfer, cooling, responsiveness, and more.
4.4
DreamCloud
DreamCloud Original Mattress
Firm, Supportive Feel
Cashmere-Blend Cover
Responsive Springs
Hybrid
365 nights
Free shipping
Cyber Weekend Extended
Up to 50% off mattresses + spend $1,000 and save $100 See Details
SO Brand Icon MattressMaterial
Material
This is a hybrid mattress, meaning it combines soft foams and sturdy coils for a balance of comfort and support.
SO Brand Icon PropertyFirmness
Firmness
We rated the DreamCloud a 7 out of 10 on our mattress firmness scale, where 1 is the softest and 10 is the firmest. A 7 means that the DreamCloud is fairly firm.
SO Brand Icon PropertyPrice
Price
$839–$2,178 (before any discounts)
so brand icons 2023 Mattress Review Home Page
Size
Twin, twin XL, full, queen, king, California king, split king
SO sleeper type back sleepers
Back Sleepers
You should get enough cushioning for your lumbar region and enough support for a neutral spinal alignment.
SO sleeper type hot sleepers
Hot Sleepers
The coils in the support layer leave plenty of room for airflow.
SO sleeper type stomach sleepers
Combination Sleepers
The DreamCloud is responsive enough for you to easily change positions.
Pros of the DreamCloud
Soft memory foam for cushioning at the lumbar region and sturdy coils for spinal support.
Springs that provide a lot of bounce and responsiveness, both of which help you change positions.
Strong edge support, allowing couples to use the whole surface of the bed.
Cons of the DreamCloud
Not enough contouring at the shoulders and hips to be one of the best mattresses for side sleepers.
SO Brand Icon PropertyShipping
Shipping
Free shipping
SO Brand Icon PropertyTrialPeriod
Trial Period
365 nights
SO Brand Icon MattressWarranty
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
so brand icons 2023 Editorial Policy Home Page copy
Returns
Free returns after at least 30 days and within the 365-night trial period

With soft foam and a sturdy layer of innerspring coils, the DreamCloud strikes a balance between comfort and support — a little bit of contouring up top and on-top-of-the-bed feel that comes from the bottom. It’s a fairly firm mattress that we think is most comfortable for back sleepers. It also has some luxury touches such as a cashmere-blend cover that are reminiscent of a high-end hotel. Learn more in our DreamCloud video review.

What our tester says:

“I really like how luxurious this mattress feels and how it could work for a variety of sleepers. Along with that, I found that the breathable cashmere cover helps the DreamCloud sleep cool throughout the night. Thanks to its medium-firm to firm support, I think the DreamCloud is a durable mattress. It balances support with plenty of pressure relief for back sleepers.” – Bridget Chapman, former Sleepopolis senior product editor

DreamCloud Mattress Sleepopolis Scores

Poor
Average
Excellent

1
2
3
4
5
4.5
Materials
3.5
Motion Isolation
4.5
Support
4.5
Value
4
Cooling
4.5
Pressure Relief
5
Responsiveness
4.5
Edge Support
5
Trial Period
5
Warranty

Expert Opinion

When it came to picking our overall best mattress for lightweight sleepers, the DreamCloud stood out because, for people 130 pounds or less, it works well for the majority of sleeping positions. This is a luxury hybrid mattress, so it includes both coils and foams to combine support and pressure relief. This makes sure that stomach sleepers and back sleepers get the support they need for a neutral spinal alignment, while occasional side sleepers get the cushioning and sinkage they need to alleviate pain around their joints.

What our tester says: “I really like how luxurious this mattress feels and how it could work for a variety of sleepers. Along with that, I found that the breathable cashmere cover helps the DreamCloud sleep cool throughout the night.” – Bridget Chapman, former senior product editor

What Customers Say

Reviews on the DreamCloud website praise this mattress for its ability to get rid of their joint pain, especially in the lumbar region. Many users wrote that they no longer have pain when they wake up, which makes it much easier to start the day.

Highlights of the DreamCloud Mattress

  • The coils in the DreamCloud leave plenty of room for airflow, which can help with cooling.
  • The DreamCloud scored well on our pressure-map test, where a specialized mat uses color-coded imaging to measure how much pressure a mattress puts on certain parts of the body. On the DreamCloud, the back region lit up completely blue (which equates to low pressure), so back sleepers should feel the foams filling in the space around their lumbar.
  • Due to the mattress’s responsiveness, combination sleepers should be able to switch positions easily on top of the DreamCloud.

What to Consider of the DreamCloud Mattress

  • Strict side sleepers who don’t alternate between any other positions might find the DreamCloud a little too firm for their liking. We recommend that these sleepers check out our roundup of the best mattresses for side sleepers to find some softer options.

Think the DreamCloud is the mattress for you? Click here for our best deal, or check out our full DreamCloud mattress review. Still not sold? Take a look at some of of our other best mattresses of 2024.

Best Cooling Mattress – WinkBed

Best Cooling Mattress
Sleepopolis Score
We rate each mattress on a scale from 1 to 5 to reflect its overall quality. This number is comprised of individual scores from hands-on testing of materials, firmness, pressure relief, motion transfer, cooling, responsiveness, and more.
4.7
WinkBeds
WinkBed Mattress
Firm, Supportive Feel
Euro Pillow Top
Sturdy Coils
Hybrid
120 nights
Free shipping
Holiday Sale
$300 off any mattress See Details
SO Brand Icon MattressMaterial
Material
Hybrid, combining a plush pillow top with coils and foams for a luxury feel.
SO Brand Icon PropertyFirmness
Firmness
Multiple firmness options: Softer, Luxury Firm, and Firmer. We tested the Luxury Firm and scored it a 7 out of 10, meaning it’s on the firmer side of medium-firm.
SO Brand Icon PropertyPrice
Price
$1,149–$2,049 (before any discounts)
so brand icons 2023 Mattress Review Home Page
Size
Twin, twin XL, full, queen, king, California king
SO sleeper type hot sleepers
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
SO sleeper type back pain
Back Pain
This bed is ideal for anyone suffering from back pain.
SO sleeper type back sleepers
Back Sleeping
A great option for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.
Pros of the WinkBed
Back sleepers should get the support they need
It has a traditional, supportive feel
The WinkBed has cooling capabilities to help people who sleep hot
Sturdy edge support and good motion isolation make this a good choice for couples
Cons of the WinkBed
It lacks a contouring, slow-sinking feel that most associate with the best memory foam mattresses.
It may be too pricey for some, and we recommend those shoppers browse the best mattresses under $1,000.
SO Brand Icon PropertyShipping
Shipping
Free Shipping
SO Brand Icon PropertyTrialPeriod
Trial Period
120 nights
SO Brand Icon MattressWarranty
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
so brand icons 2023 Editorial Policy Home Page copy
Returns
Full refund within the 120-night trial period

The WinkBed is a luxury hybrid mattress. It has a similarly supportive and sturdy feel to a traditional innerspring mattress, but upgrades like a Euro top and cooling Tencel cover give it a touch of modern luxury. Available in three firmness levels, there is a WinkBed for just about every sleeper. And a responsive and bouncy feel makes it a great pick for combination sleepers. Learn more in our video review.

What our tester says:

“If you like the feel of a traditional innerspring mattress, the WinkBed could work for you. Since this bed offered great pressure relief around my lumbar region, I’d also recommend it to folks who suffer from lower back pain.” – Nichole Mondshein, lead reviewer and staff writer

WinkBed Mattress Sleepopolis Scores

Poor
Average
Excellent

1
2
3
4
5
4.5
Materials
4
Motion Isolation
4.5
Support
4
Value
4.5
Cooling
4
Responsiveness
4.5
Pressure Relief
4
Edge Support
4
Trial Period
5
Warranty

Expert Opinion

The WinkBed is a luxury hybrid mattress constructed with a plush pillow top and ultra-supportive coils. It also comes in three different models (Softer, Luxury Firm, and Firmer), so customers really can pick the firmness level that’s right for them. For lightweight sleepers, we recommend the Softer. They should get a good balance of pressure relief from the plush Euro pillow top and support from the reinforced coils.

In terms of cooling, The WinkBed’s most notable feature is its extra-tall section of coils. These help to create space for air to flow through the hybrid construction. The layer of memory foam above the coils also has an infusion of gel for added cooling. Both of these features helped us keep a low temperature as soon as we laid down on the WinkBed, so this mattress should be an excellent choice for hot sleepers.

What our tester says: “I really like the bouncy support this mattress offers. It should be a hit with combination sleepers who need some mobility to change positions at night. Anyone who likes a more traditional innerspring feel should find a lot to love in the WinkBed.” – Bridget Chapman, former senior product editor

What Customers Say

Users on the WinksBed website love how the WinkBed helps to relieve back pain, especially for sleepers who have previously had a surgery, or who have been dealing with back pain for years (one review even stated that this mattress alleviated pain in their lumbar region that they’ve been waking up with for nine years).

Highlights of the WinkBed Mattress

  • Back sleepers should appreciate the WinkBed because of its quilted Tencel cover made from eucalyptus wood cellulose. This cover helps to contour and fill in the space around the lumbar region, which should provide pressure relief for the lower back throughout the night.
  • Because of the coils present in the WinkBed, this mattress is extra bouncy. This makes it a great option for combination sleepers who need to be able to move around and switch positions easily on top of their bed.
  • The WinkBed is constructed entirely of American-sourced materials. These quality foams and coils make the WinkBed especially durable, so it should be able to last the test of time.

What to Consider of the WinkBed Mattress

  • Strict side sleepers who are looking for a mattress with contouring or sinkage for joint pain might want to opt for a softer mattress than the WinkBed. For these sleepers, we recommend taking a look at our best mattresses for side sleepers page.

Think the WinkBed is the mattress for you? Click here for our best deal or check out our full WinkBed mattress review. Still not sold? Take a look at some of our other best cooling mattresses.

 

Best for Joint Pain – Helix Sunset

Best for Joint Pain
Sleepopolis Score
We rate each mattress on a scale from 1 to 5 to reflect its overall quality. This number is comprised of individual scores from hands-on testing of materials, firmness, pressure relief, motion transfer, cooling, responsiveness, and more.
4.1
Helix
Helix Sunset Mattress
Helix’s Softest Model
Great for Side Sleeper
Joint Pain Relief
Hybrid
100 nights
Free shipping
Cyber Monday Sale – Extended
Save 20% sitewide + 2 FREE pillows with any mattress ($150+ value) See Details
SO Brand Icon MattressMaterial
Material
Soft memory foam and supportive coils.
SO Brand Icon PropertyFirmness
Firmness
We gave this mattress a 5.5 out of 10 on our mattress firmness scale, meaning it’s a very soft mattress.
SO Brand Icon PropertyPrice
Price
$1,199–$2,499 (before any discounts)
so brand icons 2023 Mattress Review Home Page
Size
Twin, twin XL, full, queen, king, California king
SO sleeper type side sleepers
Hot Sleepers
Perfect for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.
SO sleeper type joint pain
Back Pain
This bed is ideal for anyone suffering from joint pain.
SO sleeper type back sleepers
Back Sleeping
A great option for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.
Pros of the Helix Sunset
Side sleepers should find deep sinkage and body contouring
It’s Helix’s softest model; perfect for people seeking a soft mattress
The soft layers can help prevent pressure buildup and pain around sensitive joints
Back sleepers can find a balance between pressure relief and lumbar support
Cons of the Helix Sunset
Stomach sleepers likely need a firmer mattress that can support their hips and promote proper spinal alignment.
Heavy sleepers (those over 250 pounds) may not get enough support from this mattress.
SO Brand Icon PropertyShipping
Shipping
Free Shipping
SO Brand Icon PropertyTrialPeriod
Trial Period
100 nights
SO Brand Icon MattressWarranty
Warranty
10-year warranty
so brand icons 2023 Editorial Policy Home Page copy
Returns
Full refund within the 100-night trial period

The Helix Sunset is the softest model in Helix’s mattress collection. This hybrid mattress is constructed with two layers of soft foam and a layer of individually wrapped coils. The top layer of memory foam is made from Copper Gel Memory Foam and High-Grade Helix Response Foam. Together, these soft foams work to gently cushion the sleeper’s most sensitive joints. The layer of coils below provide, lift, support, and a bit of bounce. We think this mattress is a great pick for side sleepers, who typically need a soft mattress to cradle their hips and shoulders.

What our tester says:

“The standard Helix Sunset model has a typical memory foam feel that should work well for back and side sleepers. It excels at being pressure-relieving around the joints, especially the shoulders, hips, and knees.” – Nichole Mondshein, lead reviewer and staff writer

Helix Sunset Mattress Sleepopolis Scores

Poor
Average
Excellent

1
2
3
4
5
4
Materials
3
Motion Isolation
4
Support
4.5
Value
4
Cooling
4
Responsiveness
5
Pressure Relief
4
Edge Support
3.5
Trial Period
3.5
Warranty

Expert Opinion

The Helix Sunset is another hybrid mattress on this list (as you can see, a trend is forming). Hybrid mattresses are a great option for lightweight sleepers because of how versatile they are. On the Sunset, lightweight sleepers who prefer to sleep on their back or side should fare well because of its combination of solidity and sinkage. However, lightweight stomach sleepers might need a firmer mattress model from Helix in order to get the lumbar and hip support they need throughout the night.

The Helix Sunset is constructed with a comfort layer that includes Memory Plus Foam. This is a special Helix-brand foam designed to relieve joint pressure during the night. And from the results of our pressure map test, it’s working. The Helix Sunset showed great results, lighting up entirely blue and green for back, shoulder, and hip pain. This proves that no matter your sleeping position, the Helix Sunset is there to alleviate both pressure and pain while you’re asleep.

What our tester says: “The Sunset is a great option for side sleepers. The firmness level means that there should be plenty of plush pressure relief for these folks.” – Bridget Chapman, former senior product editor

What Customers Say

Many of the users on the Helix website stated that they never want to get out of bed now because of how comfortable the Helix Sunset is. However, some reviews did state that the Helix Sunset for too soft for their liking, so keep that in mind if you prefer a firmer feel.

Highlights of the Helix Sunset Mattress

  • The Helix Sunset is extremely soft, scoring a 5.5 on our firmness scale, which makes it a great option for side sleepers who want a more body-contouring feel to their mattress. Once again, it might feel a bit firmer to lightweight sleepers.
  • The Helix Sunset is also a great choice for sleepers who tend to overheat during the night, as the cover is specifically designed to promote airflow, and the individually wrapped wire coils allow more breathability in the mattress.
  • If you’re a fan of that typical memory foam feel, the Helix Sunset is right for you. The memory foam layers in the Helix Sunset give this mattress an extra-cushiony, sinking feeling.

What to Consider of the Helix Sunset Mattress

  • As a softer mattress, the Helix Sunset is not the best fit for strict stomach sleepers of any weight. These customers need a bed that will keep their hips in line with their shoulders to promote a healthy spinal alignment. We would recommend these folks check out our roundup of the best mattresses for stomach sleepers for some better options.

Think the Helix Sunset is the mattress for you? Click here for our best deal or check out our full Helix Sunset mattress review. Still not sold? Take a look at some of our other best mattresses for shoulder pain.

 

Best for Couples – Nectar Hybrid

Best for Couples
Sleepopolis Score
We rate each mattress on a scale from 1 to 5 to reflect its overall quality. This number is comprised of individual scores from hands-on testing of materials, firmness, pressure relief, motion transfer, cooling, responsiveness, and more.
4.8
Nectar
Nectar Classic Hybrid
Medium-Firm Comfort
Breathable Cover
Responsive Springs
Hybrid
365 nights
Free shipping outside of HI and AK
Winter Flash Sale
Save Up To 50% On Nectar Mattresses See Details
SO Brand Icon MattressMaterial
Material
Hybrid, meaning it uses both foams and coils in its construction.
SO Brand Icon PropertyFirmness
Firmness
We rated this bed as a 6.5 out of 10, which is the industry standard for medium firm.
SO Brand Icon PropertyPrice
Price
$1,013–$2,326 (before any discounts)
so brand icons 2023 Mattress Review Home Page
Size
Twin, twin XL, full, queen, king, California king, split king
SO sleeper type hot sleepers
Hot Sleepers
If you often overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool, thanks to breathable coils and foams enhanced for cooling.
SO sleeper type back sleepers
Back Sleepers
Ideal for average weight and heavyweight back sleepers, thanks to its balanced, supportive feel.
SO sleeper type side sleepers
Side Sleepers
Unless they have joint pain, most side sleepers should get the pressure relief they need.
Pros of the Nectar Hybrid
Great motion isolation makes it a good choice for couples.
Its foams provide the deep pressure relief the brand is known for.
An airy hybrid construction keeps the mattress cool.
Cons of the Nectar Hybrid
Stomach sleepers will probably need something firmer and more supportive. They should check out our lists of the best firm mattress and the best mattresses for stomach sleepers.
SO Brand Icon PropertyShipping
Shipping
Free shipping
SO Brand Icon PropertyTrialPeriod
Trial Period
365 nights
SO Brand Icon MattressWarranty
Warranty
10-year warranty
so brand icons 2023 Editorial Policy Home Page copy
Returns
Free returns within the 365-night trial period

The Nectar Hybrid is a medium-firm mattress with a durable hybrid construction. It works especially well for back sleepers, as it provides enough support to keep their spines in neutral alignment. The hybrid design also gives it nice breathability and responsiveness, meaning it stays cool as you sleep and is easy to move around on.

What our tester says:

“I think back sleepers should be thrilled by the combination of pressure relief and support the Nectar Classic Hybrid offers. Couples should appreciate the Nectar Classic Hybrid’s edge support, cooling capabilities, and ability to isolate motion.” – Nichole Mondshein, lead reviewer and staff writer

Nectar Luxe Hybrid Mattres Sleepopolis Scores

Poor
Average
Excellent

1
2
3
4
5
4.5
Materials
5
Support
5
Value
5
Cooling
4.5
Edge Support
5
Trial
5
Warranty
4.5
Motion Isolation

Expert Opinion

We rated the Nectar Hybrid a 6.5 on our mattress firmness scale, which is exactly the same as the industry standard for a medium-firm mattress. But lightweight sleepers should experience it as a little bit firmer, which means the materials should help keep their spine in a neutral alignment. At the same time, the foams are soft enough to provide pressure relief to their lumbar region.

When it comes to couples, typically we look at four factors: motion transfer, sex, cooling, and edge support. The Nectar Hybrid scored well on our motion isolation test, which involves dropping a steel ball from different heights onto the mattress and measuring the vibrations with a seismometer. The Nectar Hybrid had very low vibrations, so couples shouldn’t be disturbed by their partner’s tossing and turning during the night. However, its ability to isolate motion means that it’s not super bouncy, so it may not be the best mattress for sex.

We did find that the Nectar Hybrid has strong edge support, so you shouldn’t feel like you’re sliding off the bed when you sleep near the side, plus it allows you and your partner to spread out and use the whole surface of the mattress. And as for temperature, the Nectar Hybrid includes cooling technology inside of its layers, which we’ll talk about more in the pros section below.

What our tester says: “I really like how I felt comfortable sleeping on my back and side on this mattress. The top foams have a slower-moving feel, which is great for pressure relief, and the coils bring added support and durability to the bed.” – Bridget Chapman, former senior product editor

What Customers Say

Many reviews on the Nectar website actually came from senior sleepers who said that the Nectar Hybrid really helped soothe the aches and pain that come with old age. This mattress is also especially durable, so senior sleepers should get many years of use out of it.

Highlights of the Nectar Hybrid Mattress

  • As a hybrid mattress, the Nectar Hybrid is able to combine both pressure relief and support, which is great for back sleepers who need some extra cushioning around their joints, but also want to keep their spine in a neutral alignment.
  • The Nectar Hybrid is constructed with multiple cooling features, including a breathable cover, the infusion of gel in the foam comfort layer, and coils that promote airflow.
  • The Nectar Hybrid does a great job alleviating back pain, especially for sleepers who prefer to rest on their backs. The pressure map lit up almost completely blue in this region, proving that pain should be lessened for these sleepers.

What to Consider of the Nectar Hybrid Mattress

  • Combination sleepers may want to opt for a more responsive mattress than the Nectar Hybrid. This bed includes top layers of foam that gives it more of a hugging feel, which may make it difficult for combo sleepers to switch positions during the night. We’d recommend these folks check out our roundup of the best mattresses for combination sleepers to find some bouncier options.

Think the Nectar Hybrid is the mattress for you? Click here for our best deal or check out our full Nectar Hybrid mattress review. Still not sold? Take a look at some of our other best mattresses for couples.

 

Best Memory Foam – Bear

Best Memory Foam
Sleepopolis Score
We rate each mattress on a scale from 1 to 5 to reflect its overall quality. This number is comprised of individual scores from hands-on testing of materials, firmness, pressure relief, motion transfer, cooling, responsiveness, and more.
4.1
Bear
Bear Original Mattress
Supportive Foam
Firm Comfort
Cooling Gel
Foam
120 nights
Free shipping
December Deals
Use code DEAL30 for 30% off sitewide + 2 free pillows with mattress purchase See Details
SO Brand Icon MattressMaterial
Material
Memory foam, with no coils in the construction.
SO Brand Icon PropertyFirmness
Firmness
We rated the Bear as a 7 out of 10, meaning it is just a touch firmer than medium firm.
SO Brand Icon PropertyPrice
Price
$786–$1,922 (before any discounts)
so brand icons 2023 Mattress Review Home Page
Size
Twin, twin XL, full, queen, king, California king, split king
SO sleeper type back sleepers
Back Sleepers
If you sleep on your back, you should feel well-supported on this bed.
SO sleeper type hot sleepers
Hot Sleepers
With the addition of the Celliant cover, the Bear keeps a cooler feel than some other foam beds.
SO Sleeper Type Icons BudgetShoppers
Budget Shoppers
This affordable mattress is a solid choice for those looking to save.
Pros of the Bear
The Bear’s firm and supportive feel makes it ideal for back sleepers
It doesn’t offer much sinkage, a benefit for those who prefer to feel “on top” of the bed
The optimal Celliant cover gives this foam bed a cooling touch
The Bear isolates motion well, so couples won’t be too disturbed by each other’s movements
Cons of the Bear
This bed is not supportive enough to be one of the best mattresses for heavy sleepers, which accommodate folks weighing 250 pounds or more
The lack of sinkage means the Bear isn’t the best for cushioning or pressure relief, which is crucial for the best mattresses for side sleepers and the best mattresses for arthritis
SO Brand Icon PropertyShipping
Shipping
Free shipping
SO Brand Icon PropertyTrialPeriod
Trial Period
120 Nights
SO Brand Icon MattressWarranty
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
so brand icons 2023 Editorial Policy Home Page copy
Returns
Full refund and free returns within trial period

Even though it’s made entirely of foam, the Bear has a firm, supportive feel that should be sturdy enough for back sleepers and stomach sleepers alike. Additionally, combination sleepers should be able to easily move around on its surface. You can also pay extra for a Celliant cover that may help with cooling and muscle recovery. Learn more in our video review.

What our tester says:

“I found the double poly foam construction produced a firm, supportive feel. Though you’re likely to sink into its top layer of memory foam, this sinkage is somewhat curbed by the taut poly foam transition layer. This means most folks are going to be positioned more “on top” of the structure than “in” it.” – Nichole Mondshein, lead reviewer and mattress tester

Bear Mattress Sleepopolis Scores

Poor
Average
Excellent

1
2
3
4
5
4
Materials
4
Motion Isolation
3.5
Support
4.5
Value
4
Cooling
4
Pressure Relief
4
Responsiveness
3
Edge Support
4
Trial Period
5
Warranty

Expert Opinion

If you’re a lightweight sleeper who’s not crazy about the firmer feel of a hybrid or innerspring mattress, you might be biased toward the hugging feel of memory foam. The all-foam Bear includes two inches of this material, which contours and relieves tension around sensitive areas. As comfortable as memory foam is, it can sometimes cause sleepers to sink too far into the bed. However, the Bear prevents this with a bottom layer of high-density support foam. When we tested out the mattress, we felt fully supported and on top of the mattress.

We rated the Bear as a 7 on our firmness scale, so it is slightly firmer than the industry standard for a medium-firm mattress, which is set at a 6.5. Once again, this is great for lightweight sleepers because it allows versatility for different sleeping positions, whether your preference is combination, back, side, or stomach sleeping. All of these folks should be comfortable on the Bear, as long as they weight 130 pounds or less.

What our tester says: “I really appreciate the firm and responsive feel of the Bear mattress. Its combination of support and pressure relief makes it an great option for back sleepers struggling with back pain. I also really like the Bear’s Celliant cover.” – Bridget Chapman, former senior product editor

What Customers Say

Many users on the Bear website stated that this mattress is the perfect combination of support and pressure relief, which is great for sleepers who want some extra cushioning around their joints without losing their neutral spinal alignment.

Highlights of the Bear Mattress

  • When we tested out the Bear with our seismometer, it proved to be adept at isolating motion, so couples shouldn’t be able to feel the movements of their partner throughout the night. This is due to the top layer of memory foam, which keeps movement from traveling across the top of the mattress.
  • The Bear includes gel infusions in its construction to help it stay cooler throughout the night, which is rare for an all-foam bed. This mattress also comes with the option to add a Celliant cover that keeps sleepers cooler for longer (but keep in mind that this cover does cost $130, in addition to your mattress total).
  • Another benefit of Celliant is that it may assist with recovery and blood flow, which has made Bear a popular choice among athletes. We should say that we haven’t verified these claims ourselves, but you can read about the clinical trials involving Celliant here.

What to Consider of the Bear Mattress

  • Heavier sleepers over 250 pounds may find that the Bear doesn’t give them the support that they need to keep their body elevated. We recommend that these sleepers check out our roundup of the best mattresses for heavy sleepers to find a firmer option.

Think the Bear is the mattress for you? Click here for our best deal or check out our full Bear mattress review. Still not sold? Take a look at some of our other best memory foam mattresses.

Best for Stomach Sleepers – Saatva

Best for Stomach Sleepers
Sleepopolis Score
We rate each mattress on a scale from 1 to 5 to reflect its overall quality. This number is comprised of individual scores from hands-on testing of materials, firmness, pressure relief, motion transfer, cooling, responsiveness, and more.
4.8
Saatva
Saatva Mattress
Multiple Firmnesses
Cooling Mattress
Strong Edge Support
Innerspring
365-night trial and lifetime warranty
Free white glove delivery
Limited Time Offer
Take $300 off your order of $1,000 or more See Details
SO Brand Icon MattressMaterial
Material
Innerspring, for a bouncy mattress that’s easy to move around.
SO Brand Icon PropertyFirmness
Firmness
Multiple firmness options. We tested the Luxury Firm model and scored it a 6.5 out of 10, meaning it’s the industry standard for medium firm.
SO Brand Icon PropertyPrice
Price
$935–$2,450 (before any discounts)
so brand icons 2023 Mattress Review Home Page
Size
Twin, twin XL, full, queen, king, California king, split king, split California king
SO sleeper type hot sleepers
Hot Sleepers
If you ever overheat while you sleep, this mattress should help you stay cool.
back pain
Back Pain
This bed is ideal for anyone suffering from back pain.
back sleeper
Back Sleeping
This mattress is ideal for back sleepers of all weights.
stomach sleeper
Stomach Sleeping
It’s also a nice option for lightweight and average weight stomach sleepers.
Pros of the Saatva
With three firmness options, most sleepers should find a Saatva model that works for them
The Saatva uses high-quality materials that will last you a long time
Its bouncy and responsive feel means it’s great for combination sleepers
The Saatva’s reinforced edges give it some of the best edge support we’ve ever seen
Cons of the Saatva
If you’re looking for lots of sinkage or amazing motion isolation, you’re better off with one of the best memory foam mattresses.
None of the Saatva Classic models will likely be supportive enough for heavy stomach sleepers. For these folks, we recommend the Saatva HD.
SO Brand Icon PropertyShipping
Shipping
Free white glove delivery
SO Brand Icon PropertyTrialPeriod
Trial Period
365 nights
SO Brand Icon MattressWarranty
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
so brand icons 2023 Editorial Policy Home Page copy
Returns
Full refund within the 365-night trial period. Saatva charges a $99 pick-up fee

The Saatva’s coil-on-coil construction provides a classic innerspring feel. It’s a good option for combo sleepers, who will want to feel free to switch positions and avoid feeling “stuck” in the mattress. It comes in three firmness levels, so you should be able to find one that suits your needs. The white glove delivery Saatva provides is an added perk and will save you the headache of getting rid of your old mattress (they take it away for free!). For more information, watch our video review.

What our tester says:

“I think the Saatva is a great option for back sleepers, as the Luxury Firm model provides enough cushioning for their lumbar region, but also lots of support to keep their spine in a neutral alignment.” – Nichole Mondshein, lead reviewer and staff writer

Saatva Mattress Sleepopolis Scores

Poor
Average
Excellent

1
2
3
4
5
5
Materials
3
Motion Isolation
5
Support
5
Edge Support
4.5
Cooling
5
Responsiveness
4.5
Pressure Relief
5
Trial Period
5
Warranty
5
Value

Expert Opinion

It can be difficult to find a suitable mattress for stomach sleepers. Even lightweight stomach sleepers put more pressure on a bed than other sleeping positions, so they need something that’s going to provide comfort without letting the hips sink too far into the material, which can throw the spine out of alignment. However, the Saatva Classic scored a 7 on our firmness scale, making it firmer than the industry standard for a medium-firm mattress. Because of this, lightweight stomach sleepers should have enough lift beneath them to keep their hips in line with their shoulders.

The Saatva also comes in three firmness models: Plush Soft, Luxury Firm, and Firm. We tested out the Luxury Firm model and felt very supported on its coil-on-coil construction. Lightweight stomach sleepers should enjoy its traditional innerspring feel, and the additional three-inch Euro top should provide just enough pressure relief for their joints and lumbar region. These folks might also be comfortable on the Plush Soft model.

What our tester says: “I’d recommend trying the Firm model if you’re a strict stomach sleeper. A firm mattress helps keep the hips and shoulders aligned, which is important for avoiding back pain.” – Bridget Chapman, former senior product editor

What Customers Say

Users on the Saatva website love the Saatva Classic because of its easy setup, which is paired with free white glove delivery. Because of this, customers didn’t have to lug a heavy mattress up to their apartment or wait for an off-gassing period to start getting better sleep. Instead, someone from Saatva delivers it right to their door and sets it up for them.

Highlights of the Saatva Mattress

  • The Saatva Classic is a great option for back sleepers because it provides cushioning for the lumbar region with its Euro pillow top, while the coils present in the mattress should keep the spine in a neutral alignment.
  • The white glove delivery also means that the mattress is never compressed in a box. You won’t have to wait for the mattress to expand, so you can sleep on it right away.
  • Since the Saatva Classic has a double-layer of coils, there’s more room than usual for air to flow through the mattress. This is great for hot sleepers that want to stay cooler throughout the night.

What to Consider of the Saatva Mattress

  • Light-sleeping couples might want to look elsewhere for their mattress, since the Saatva Classic doesn’t have the best motion isolation. Partners might wake each other up if one if them is easily disturbed at night.

Think the Saatva is the mattress for you? Click here for our best deal or check out our full Saatva mattress review. Still not sold? Take a look at some of the other best mattresses for stomach sleepers.

 

Best for Side Sleepers – Nolah Evolution

Best for Side Sleepers
Sleepopolis Score
We rate each mattress on a scale from 1 to 5 to reflect its overall quality. This number is comprised of individual scores from hands-on testing of materials, firmness, pressure relief, motion transfer, cooling, responsiveness, and more.
4.4
Nolah
Nolah Evolution Hybrid Mattress
Multiple Firmnesses
ArcticTex Cover
HDMax Support Coils
Hybrid Mattress
120-night Trial and Lifetime Warranty
Free shipping
Cyber Monday Sale
35% off sitewide + 2 free pillows + $150 off BedJet with mattress purchase See Details
Icon MattressReviews MattressType 250
Material
Hybrid, meaning this bed combines foam and coils in its construction.
SO Brand Icon PropertyFirmness
Firmness
Multiple Firmness Options: Plush, Luxury Firm, and Firm. We tested the Luxury Firm and rated it as 6.5 out of 10, meaning it is a medium-firm mattress.
SO Brand Icon PropertyPrice
Price
$1,499–$3,198 (before any discounts)
so brand icons 2023 Mattress Review Home Page
Sizes
Twin, twin XL, full, queen, king, California king, split king
SO sleeper type hot sleepers
Hot Sleepers
If you overheat while you sleep, this mattress may help you stay cool.
SO sleeper type side sleepers
Side Sleepers
Ideal for lightweight and average weight side sleepers.
back sleeper
Back Sleepers
Ideal for lightweight and average weight back sleepers.
Pros of the Nolah Evolution
Great for couples due to its good edge support and low motion transfer
Works for back sleepers who need good lumbar support
Side sleepers should appreciate the pressure relief
Cons of the Nolah Evolution
Too soft to be one of the best mattresses for stomach sleepers.
Bargain hunters may find this to be a bit pricier and may want to stick to the best mattresses for the money.
Doesn’t have a slow-moving memory foam feel that you’d find in the best memory foam mattresses.
SO Brand Icon PropertyShipping
Shipping
Free shipping and returns
SO Brand Icon PropertyTrialPeriod
Trial Period
120 Nights
SO Brand Icon MattressWarranty
Warranty
Lifetime warranty
so brand icons 2023 Editorial Policy Home Page copy
Returns
Full refund after 30 days and within the 120-night trial period

The Nolah Evolution’s hybrid construction offers the cushioning of memory foam with the responsiveness of coils. The Luxury Firm model is a good option for side and back sleepers due to its medium-firm feel, though there are Plush and Firm versions as well. Those who share a bed may also appreciate its low motion transfer, so you won’t be disturbed by a partner’s movements and its solid edge support to allow you to maximize surface area. For more information, check out our video review.

What our tester says:

“I laid down to rest on this mattress on my back — my primary sleep position. I felt comfortable, but also appreciated the cozy, plush top of the bed. After some time lying on my back, I switched over to my side. I didn’t find this position quite as comfortable, as I did feel some slight pressure buildup in my shoulder.” – Amelia Jerden, senior staff writer

Nolah Evolution Hybrid Mattress Sleepopolis Scores

Poor
Average
Excellent

1
2
3
4
5
4.5
Materials
4.5
Motion Isolation
4.5
Support
4.5
Edge Support
4.5
Cooling
5
Responsiveness
5
Pressure Relief
4
Trial Period
5
Warranty
4
Value

Expert Opinion

Side sleepers and lightweight sleepers are similar in that they need a mattress with a ton of softness and contouring. For the former, it’s because they tend to experience beds as firmer than other types of sleepers. And for the latter, they require deep pressure relief at the shoulders and hips. So if you’re a lightweight side sleeper, we recommend an especially soft mattress like the Nolah Evolution. lt’s offered in three different firmnesses, and we naturally recommend their Plush model. Lightweight side sleepers should experience plenty of contouring at the shoulders and hips — the areas of the body where they put the most pressure.

While testing the Nolah Evolution’s Luxury Firm on our pressure map test, we found some fantastic pressure relief for average weight sleepers. Our tester noted the gentle contouring, especially at the shoulders. With this in mind, we feel really confident that the Plush model will suit lightweight side sleepers well, too. Just don’t forget to select the right firmness at checkout.

What our tester says: “I found this mattress to be very comfortable while laying on my side. It alleviated pressure at my shoulders and hips, and allowing for nice sinkage.” – Bridget Chapman, former senior product editor

What Customers Say

Many users on the Nolah website loved how cooling the Evolution felt to them throughout the night. Because of this, they were able to sleep through the night without waking up covered in sweat (which no one wants, of course).

Highlights of the Nolah Evolution Mattress

  • This mattress scored really well for couples, especially because of its edge support, responsiveness, and cooling .
  • We think lightweight back sleepers should find a balanced feel on the Plush model, but lightweight stomach sleepers will receive stronger support on the Luxury Firm version.
  • Combination sleepers should appreciate this bed because the coils in the construction should keep their hips in line with their shoulders, promoting a healthy spinal alignment. At the same time, the top layers of foam provide pressure relief, so combo sleepers who often switch to side sleeping shouldn’t feel a build-up of pressure in their joints.

What to Consider of the Nolah Evolution Mattress

  • Budget shoppers may find that the Nolah Evolution is a bit out of their price range. This luxury mattress costs $1,749 after discounts.

Think this is the mattress for you? Click here for our best deal or check out our full Nolah Evolution mattress review. Still not sold? Take a look at some of our other best mattresses for side sleepers.

 

Best Hybrid – Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid

Best Hybrid Mattress
Sleepopolis Score
We rate each mattress on a scale from 1 to 5 to reflect its overall quality. This number is comprised of individual scores from hands-on testing of materials, firmness, pressure relief, motion transfer, cooling, responsiveness, and more.
4.5
Brooklyn Bedding
Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid Mattress
Medium-Firm Comfort
Budget-Friendly
Responsive Coils
Hybrid
120 nights
Free shipping
Use code GIFT25 for 25% off sitewide See Details
Icon MattressReviews MattressType 250
Material
Hybrid (this bed combines both memory foam and coils)
SO Brand Icon PropertyFirmness
Firmness
Multiple firmnesses: Soft, Medium, Firm. We tested the Medium and rated it a 6.5 out of 10, making it medium-firm.
SO Brand Icon PropertyPrice
Price
$665–$1,599 (before any discounts)
so brand icons 2023 Mattress Review Home Page
Size
Twin, twin XL, full, queen, king, California king, and more
SO sleeper type couples
Couples
Those who sleep with a partner shouldn’t notice their partners shift around during the night.
SO sleeper type back sleepers
Back Sleepers
Most average weight back sleepers should find a good balance of comfort and support.
SO sleeper type stomach sleepers
Combination Sleepers
Those who change sleeping positions should find this bed easy to move on.
Pros of the Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid
It’s a good choice for budget shoppers. With a discount, queen sizes are often under $1,000
Back sleepers should find both comfort and support on the Medium model, which can help alleviate back pain
Brooklyn Bedding offers this bed in different firmnesses, making it a versatile option
The combination of coils and foam makes this mattress very easy to move around on
Cons of the Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid
It doesn’t have that sinking-in feeling often found in the best memory foam mattresses
The Medium mattress is too firm for side sleepers and too soft for stomach sleepers (though the Soft or Firm model may work, respectively)
SO Brand Icon PropertyShipping
Shipping
Free shipping
SO Brand Icon PropertyTrialPeriod
Trial Period
120 Nights
SO Brand Icon MattressWarranty
Warranty
10-year warranty
so brand icons 2023 Editorial Policy Home Page copy
Returns
Full refund within the 120-night trial. Brooklyn Bedding charges a $99 pick up fee

The Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid mattress combines a foam comfort layer and sturdy coils. This combination of materials makes it bouncy and easy to move around on. It comes in three firmness levels, and we recommend the Medium model for most back sleepers. It’s a great choice for shoppers who are looking for a new mattress on a budget. For more information, check out our video review.

What our tester says:

“Given that the Signature Hybrid has some excellent bounce, I’d highly recommend this mattress for combination sleepers who often change positions multiple times throughout the night. I also think the Signature Hybrid could be a great fit for couples. You shouldn’t be overly disturbed by a restless partner on this bed, and it has nice, firm edge support.” – Nichole Mondshein, lead reviewer and staff writer

Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid Mattress Sleepopolis Scores

Poor
Average
Excellent

1
2
3
4
5
4
Materials
3.5
Motion Isolation
4.5
Support
4.5
Edge Support
4.5
Cooling
5
Responsiveness
4.5
Pressure Relief
4
Trial Period
3.5
Warranty
4.5
Value

Expert Opinion

Like many of the other hybrid mattresses on this list, the Brooklyn Bedding Signature combines individually wrapped coils with comforting foam. The company actually uses their patented TitanFlex foam, which we felt delivered the feel of traditional memory foam, but with more responsiveness and cooling. Brooklyn Bedding also sells their mattresses in three firmnesses: Soft, Medium, and Firm.

We personally recommend the Medium version of the Signature Hybrid to lightweight back and stomach sleepers, while side sleepers might do better with the Soft model. This is because the firmer mattress models will help back and side sleepers to feel more “on top” of the mattress for a neutral spinal alignment, while the Soft model will allow for more sinkage around sensitive areas (i.e. the hips and shoulders) for lightweight side sleepers.

What our tester says: “I really like how the Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid comes in three different firmness levels. It allows for all kinds of sleepers to find the right fit for them.” – Bridget Chapman, former senior product editor

What Customers Say

Customers on the Brooklyn Bedding website stated that they bought the Signature Hybrid for their kids because of how durable and long-lasting this mattress is. The quality materials allow their kids to grow up without needing a new bed.

Highlights of the Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid Mattress

  • Combination sleepers should appreciate the Signature Hybrid because its coils should allow them to easily move around on top of the mattress and switch positions as needed.
  • Couples should appreciate the low motion transfer results of the Signature Hybrid. Partners are unlikely to feel each other’s movements during the night.
  • If you want additional softness from the Signature Hybrid, you can pay extra for an optional pillow top.

What to Consider of the Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid Mattress

  • While lightweight stomach sleepers should get the support they need on the Signature Hybrid, average weight and heavy stomach sleepers will probably need a firmer and more supportive mattress.

Think the Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid is the mattress for you? Click here for our best deal or check out our full Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid mattress review. Still not sold? Take a look at some of the other best hybrid mattresses.

 

How Do I Know If I’m a Lightweight Sleeper?

Lightweight sleepers: 130 pounds or less

Average weight sleepers: 130 pounds–250 pounds

Heavier sleepers: 250 pounds or more

How to Choose a Mattress for Lightweight Sleepers

Firmness

Lightweight sleepers can select from a variety of firmnesses. However, most lean towards softer mattresses. These sleepers don’t require the same support as heavier sleepers, so a soft mattress will usually still provide adequate sturdiness and comfort. If you’re a lightweight sleeper who prefers a firmer mattress, then look for a thin comfort layer. The thinner comfort layer allows you to compress into the firmer part of the construction.

At Sleepopolis, we test firmness by rating it on a scale of one to 10, with one being the softest and 10 being the firmest. Usually, we have several Sleepopolis employees test these mattresses, and then we find the mean of their rankings to determine the overall firmness score. This helps us give the average sleeper a good idea of where this mattress falls in firmness compared to the industry standard for a medium-firm mattress, which sits at a 6.5 on our firmness scale.

When testing mattresses, we test firmness on a firmness scale from 1-10.
Sleepopolis Firmness Scale

So, if you’re a lightweight sleeper who has a specific firmness in mind, make sure that you take into account the fact that the mattresses on this list might feel slightly firmer to you because of your body type. Because of this, our firmness scale might not be entirely accurate when you lay on the mattress yourself.

Sleeping Position

Keep in mind that it’s important to consider sleeping position in conjunction with body type. Heavyweight side sleepers are going to need a much firmer and more supportive mattress than lightweight sleepers, because heavyweight sleepers use more weight to press into the mattress layers.

Sleepopolis prioritize testing each mattress in every sleeping position
Sleepopolis team testing mattresses in every sleeping position

Side sleepers: Pressure relief is the most important thing to remember about a good mattress for side sleepers. With the way they position their bodies, pressure builds up around the hips and shoulders. A mattress with a softer construction or a thicker comfort layer can ease these pain points and ensure a restful sleep.

Side Sleepers

Pressure relief is the most important thing to remember about a good mattress for side sleepers. With the way they position their bodies, pressure builds up around the hips and shoulders. A mattress with a softer construction or a thicker comfort layer can ease these pain points and ensure a restful sleep.

Back Sleepers

Back sleepers: A balance of comfort and support is essential for back sleepers. They require support to prevent sinkage, but also need pressure relief at the hips and lumbar region. Most mattress types should work well for these sleepers, as long as they’re not super soft or super firm.

Stomach Sleepers

Stomach sleepers: These folks require a firmer, more supportive mattress for proper spinal alignment. Stomach sleepers need their hips to remain lifted, so it’s crucial to find a bed that’s going to prevent the waist from bowing and the back from arching. Innersprings, latex beds, and firmer hybrids do this especially well. However, lightweight stomach sleepers can get away with many foam mattresses, since they don’t require as much support.

Combination Sleepers

Combination sleepers: Because they switch positions at night, they’ll want a bed that makes it easy to move around on. Look for a responsive, bouncy construction. These can most often be found in latex, innerspring, or hybrid mattresses. However, some memory foam beds include transition layers that prevent excess sinkage and help with ease of movement.

Type of Mattresses

Sleepopolis testing of mattress materials
Take a Closer Look at the Different Mattress Materials

Each mattress has a different construction and utilizes different materials. With that said, it comes down to your individual wants and needs when selecting the best mattress for lightweight sleepers. As a general rule, softer mattresses (like memory foam mattresses) are going to be better for lightweight sleepers; they simply don’t need the support of a hybrid, latex, or innerspring, as heavy sleepers do. 

Alright, let’s get into some of the most commonly used mattress materials:

Memory Foam

Memory Foam: Memory foam is stellar at contouring and pressure relief. This should appeal to lightweight side sleepers who require cushioning at the shoulders and hips. While some foams tend to trap heat and sag easily, companies have created cooling foams and high-density foams to work around these challenges.

Innerspring

Innerspring: These beds are known for providing unparalleled support, thanks to the inclusion of sturdy coils. For this reason, they’re fantastic for heavier sleepers or stomach sleepers. The coils allow for cooling as well, making this construction ideal for hot sleepers. Innerspring beds are often great for back pain because they offer firmer support, but since they don’t have the same level of pressure relief as a memory foam bed, they’re not the best for joint pain.

Hybrid

Hybrid: If you want a mixture of memory foam and innerspring features, opt for a hybrid. It’s the best of both worlds, including foam for pressure relief with sturdy coils at the base. Because every company has a different construction style for their hybrid mattresses, they range in firmness. Overall, these mattresses are durable, cooling, and more balanced in feel.

Latex

Latex: For an environmentally friendly option, try latex. Mattresses can include latex foam in the comfort layers for cushioning, or even in the base of the mattress for support. This material is incredibly durable, and naturally cooling. While they tend to be more expensive, the quality of these beds is impressive and often worth the cost.

Other Mattress Considerations

Cooling

If you sleep with a partner, experience hot flashes, or just want to avoid overheating in bed, opt for a cooling mattress. There are a number of options available for reasonable price points. Generally, a hybrid mattress or innerspring mattress is best. The coils used provide lots of airflow. While memory foam mattresses are known for trapping heat, many companies include cooling technology to combat this.

When we test mattresses, we use a thermal gun to understand how fast a mattress dissipates heat after our testers lay on the mattress for 10 minutes. Typically mattresses that have phase changing materials, coils, breathable covers and gels perform great in this cooling test. The heat gun helps us map out where each mattress might trap heat and how it will perform when you sleep on it. We consider a 5 degree increase fantastic cooling and an 8 degree increase great cooling.

An example of our cooling test
Thermal Gun Cooling Test from the Studio

Durability

Mattresses are an investment, which makes purchasing a durable mattress all the more important.

  • Memory foam mattresses tend to last five to seven years.
  • Innerspring mattresses tend to last seven to 10 years.
  • Hybrid mattresses tend to last seven to 10 years.
  • Latex mattresses tend to last 10 to 15 years.

However, it all comes down to the mattress construction and quality of materials. Many high-density foam mattresses can last up to 10 years, while those with weaker foams sag much faster. Be sure to look out for mattress warranties as they will give you a good idea as to how long the mattress company expects them to last, and how durable the construction is.

Motion Isolation

An example of the Sleepopolis Red Wine Test
A look at the Sleepopolis Seismograph test for motion isolation

Are you a light sleeper who shares the bed with a partner or pet? If so, ensure that you take motion isolation into consideration. If a bed has high motion transfer, it’s not as likely to isolate movement. Memory foam beds or mattresses with thick comfort layers tend to be the best at motion isolation.

To test for motion isolation we perform a couple of tests to each mattress and score them out of 5. We first do a red wine test where we place a full glass of wine on one side of the mattress and rotate through various sleeping positions on the other side of the bed and see if the glass tips over.

We also use a seismograph machine to measure the amount of movement felt across the mattress when weighted, steel balls are dropped from different heights onto the bed. These tests help us score each bed for motion isolation and how they will perform for side sleepers.

Edge Support

Edge support in a mattress refers to how well the edges maintain stability when weight is applied, preventing sagging and enhancing overall usability. For lightweight sleepers, good edge support is important because it maximizes the usable sleep surface and makes getting in and out of bed easier. Additionally, strong edge support enhances comfort by preventing the sensation of rolling off, promoting better sleep quality. We measure for edge support by using a yard stick to measure the amount of sink experienced when sitting on the edge of the bed.

Nichole doing the yardstick test on the Plank Firm Luxe
Nichole doing the yardstick test on the Plank Firm Luxe

Buying a Mattress for Lightweight Sleepers

Average Cost

Most mattresses should cost around $1,500 for a queen size (that’s the market price before any discounts). Mattresses under $1,000 may run between $700 and $1,000, while luxury mattresses often cost around $2,000. Keep in mind that a super cheap mattress may not have quality materials that provide proper support and durability. At the same time, ridiculously expensive mattresses may not give you any more perks than a luxury mattress costing a few hundred dollars less. 

Coupons and Deals

For exclusive discounts, check out our page for mattress coupons and promo codes.

Warranties and Sleep Trials

Warranties serve as a promise to customers that if a defective or damaged product is delivered, it will be replaced. Every company has different conditions, so it’s important to pay attention to the policy’s fine print. 

Sleep trials are a set amount of time for the customer to test out the mattress. Make sure to use this sleep trial to its fullest potential, paying close attention to whether or not it suits your needs and preferences. Is the mattress truly best for your back pain? Is it cooling enough? Does it provide adequate comfort for both you and your spouse?

Sleep Tips for Lightweight Sleepers

  1. Create a Comfortable Environment: Invest in a good mattress and pillows, and keep the room cool and dark.
  2. Establish a Sleep Routine: Go to bed and wake up at the same time daily to regulate your internal clock.
  3. Limit Light Exposure: Reduce screen time and dim the lights an hour before bed to boost melatonin production.
  4. Practice Relaxation Techniques: Use deep breathing or meditation to unwind and prepare your mind for sleep.

FAQs

What is the best mattress for a light person?

While the best mattress for lightweight sleepers relies on your individual needs and preferences, the DreamCloud is our personal favorite. It should work well for lightweight sleepers in all sleeping positions, including combination sleepers. Most hot sleepers, those with back pain, and couples should be satisfied with its many features.

Do lighter people need softer mattresses?

Firmer mattresses are great for heavier sleepers or those who need more support, since they press through more of the mattress layers. Softer mattresses tend to be more comfortable for lightweight sleepers because they don’t sink too far into the surface. A softer option lets lightweight sleepers compress into the comfort layer and firmer layer to receive a necessary amount of comfort and support. That said, every sleeper is different; side sleepers need a softer mattress for pressure relief, while stomach sleepers require a firmer bed to keep the spine aligned.

What is considered a lightweight sleeper?

We consider those weighing under 130 pounds to be lightweight sleepers. Those between 150 pounds and 250 pounds are average weight sleepers, and folks above 250 pounds are categorized as heavier sleepers.

How We Chose These Mattresses

We’ve reviewed more than 220 products in our mattress lab, running each one through tests such as pressure-mapping and measuring motion transfer with a seismometer. From there, we give every bed an overall score based on materials, comfort, support, cooling, and edge support. We also factor in brand performance with categories such as value and warranty.

When determining the best mattresses for lightweight sleepers, we only picked products that have a trial period of 120 nights or longer. That way, lightweight sleepers will have plenty of time to determine if the mattress chosen best suits them. Click here to learn more about our methodology.

Recap: Best Mattresses for Lightweight Sleepers 2024

Mattress Best For Price (Queen Size) Coupon Review
DreamCloud Overall $1,332 DreamCloud Coupon Read Review
WinkBed Cooling $1,799 WinkBed Coupon Read Review
Helix Sunset Joint Pain $1,373 Helix Coupon Read Review
Nectar Hybrid Couples $1,199 Nectar Coupon Read Review
Bear Soft $998 Bear Coupon Read Review
Saatva Stomach Sleepers $1,770 Saatva Coupon Read Review
Nolah Evolution Side Sleepers $2,499 Nolah Coupon Read Review
Brooklyn Bedding Signature Hybrid Hybrid $1,332 Brooklyn Bedding Coupon Read Review
Bridget Chapman

Bridget Chapman

Former Senior Product Editor

About Author

Bridget is a Certified Sleep Science Coach and senior editor here at Sleepopolis. From testing mattresses to writing about various sleep health topics, her goal is to help you get a good night’s sleep. You can also find her in videos on our YouTube channel. Bridget graduated magna cum laude from San Diego State University with a degree in journalism and a minor in English. Before joining the Sleepopolis team, she was a TV news reporter and worked in cities across the country. She loves spending time outdoors, checking out new restaurants, snuggling with her pets, and of course — getting some quality Zzz’s.

Combination Sleeper

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